Self-sinking aeration hose

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein is an aeration hose capable of diffusing bubbles of air within a body of water, comprising a) a hose portion derived from a composition, comprising a polyvinyl chloride resin; a first rubber component; a second rubber component; at least one copolymer; at least one low temperature plasticizer; at least one filler comprising copper dioxide; at least one heat stabilizer; at least one internal lubricant; at least one antioxidant; and at least one biofouling agent, wherein the hose portion comprises an outer hose portion, an inner hose portion and a plurality of hose apertures capable of receiving and diffusing pressurized air, wherein the hose is flexible and has no memory, and wherein the hose apertures are provided therethrough the inner hose portion and the outer hose portion and proportionally spaced about the outer hose portion along a length of the hose portion.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of applicant's co-pendingapplication Ser. No. 14/831,849, filed Aug. 20, 2015, the entirecontents of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is in the field of aeration hoses capable ofdiffusing bubbles of air within a body of water. In particular, thedisclosure pertains to PVC compositions useful with producing aself-sinking aeration hose that will diffuse air evenly along its entirelength.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Aquatic pools, fishponds, sewage lagoons, wastewater treatment and/orfishing farms usually requires aeration devices to maintain theconcentration of dissolved oxygen, which is necessary for aquaticunderwater organisms and microorganisms, the stabilization of waterquality, and the ecological balance of aquatic pools. Microorganismsrequire the absorption of dissolved oxygen from the water to decomposethe redundant organic material and to perform nitrification and lowertoxicities. The mixing of small air bubbles and water increases theconcentration of dissolved oxygen of the pool water and promotes thedecomposition rate of the organic materials by microorganisms.

Aeration systems and tubes can provide major increases in the oxygenconcentration in a given water body. Current porous aeration tubes onthe market today employ heavy loads that cause the tubes to sink to thebottom of an aquatic pool. There are additional disadvantages thatinclude: weak aerobic capacity, easily clogged pores, and subsequentlywater that cannot easily be discharged.

Pollution and the preservation of water resources is a major globalconcern, but in some water body it is often difficult to provideaeration at the bottom and cumbersome and expensive installation methodsgreatly reduces the likelihood of widespread implementation. Therefore,in view of these limitations there is a need for improved aerationsystems and tubing for oxygenation of a given water body.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, disclosed herein is an aeration hose capable of diffusingbubbles of air within a body of water, comprising: a) a hose portionderived from a composition, comprising a polyvinyl chloride resin; afirst rubber component; a second rubber component; at least onecopolymer; at least one low temperature plasticizer; at least one fillercomprising copper dioxide; at least one heat stabilizer; at least oneinternal lubricant; at least one antioxidant; and at least onebiofouling agent, wherein the hose portion comprises an outer hoseportion, an inner hose portion and a plurality of hose apertures capableof receiving and diffusing pressurized air, wherein the hose is flexibleand has no memory, and wherein the hose apertures are providedtherethrough the inner hose portion and the outer hose portion andproportionally spaced about the outer hose portion along a length of thehose portion; b) a first protective layer portion surrounding an outerdiameter of the hose portion, comprising a plurality of first protectivelayer apertures provided therethrough an inner protective sheathdiameter and an outer protective sheath diameter and spaced along alength of the protective sheath, wherein the first protective layer isflexible and has memory; and c) a second protective layer portionsurrounding an outer diameter of the first protective layer portion,comprising a plurality of second protective layer apertures providedtherethrough an inner second protective layer diameter and an outersecond protective layer diameter and spaced along a length of the secondprotective layer, wherein the second protective layer is flexible andhas memory, wherein the second protective layer apertures are capable ofproviding communication for the air to flow to a body of water from thecorresponding first protective layer apertures, and wherein the hoseapertures are capable of providing communication for the air to flowfrom the inner hose portion to a plurality of corresponding firstprotective layer apertures.

In another aspect, disclosed herein is a method of aerating and/ordeicing a body of water with an aeration hose capable of diffusingbubbles of air within a body of water, comprising: a) a hose portionderived from a composition, comprising a polyvinyl chloride resin; afirst rubber component; a second rubber component; at least onecopolymer; at least one low temperature plasticizer; at least one fillercomprising calcium carbonate; at least one heat stabilizer; at least oneinternal lubricant; at least one antioxidant; and at least onebiofouling agent, wherein the hose portion comprises an outer hoseportion, an inner hose portion and a plurality of hose apertures capableof receiving and diffusing pressurized air, wherein the hose is flexibleand has no memory, and wherein the hose apertures are providedtherethrough the inner hose portion and the outer hose portion andproportionally spaced about the outer hose portion along a length of thehose portion; b) a first protective layer portion surrounding an outerdiameter of the hose portion, comprising a plurality of first protectivelayer apertures provided therethrough an inner protective sheathdiameter and an outer protective sheath diameter and spaced along alength of the protective sheath, wherein the first protective layer isflexible and has memory; and c) a second protective layer portionsurrounding an outer diameter of the first protective layer portion,comprising a plurality of second protective layer apertures providedtherethrough an inner second protective layer diameter and an outersecond protective layer diameter and spaced along a length of the secondprotective layer, wherein the second protective layer is flexible andhas memory, wherein the second protective layer apertures are capable ofproviding communication for the air to flow to a body of water from thecorresponding first protective layer apertures, and wherein the hoseapertures are capable of providing communication for the air to flowfrom the inner hose portion to a plurality of corresponding firstprotective layer apertures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a cutaway side view of an aeration hose 100comprising an inner hose diameter 104, an outer hose diameter 105 andaeration hose length 103.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a cutaway view of an aeration hose 200comprising an inner hose portion 203, an outer hose portion 205 and asecond protective layer outer surface 204.

FIG. 3A is an illustration of a cutaway view of an aeration hose 300comprising a plurality of hose apertures 301, wherein the firstprotective layer apertures 302 and the second protective layer apertures303 are closed.

FIG. 3B is an illustration of a cutaway view of an aeration hose 300comprising a plurality of hose apertures 301, wherein the firstprotective layer apertures 302 and the second protective layer apertures303 are open.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of an aeration hose 100 comprising a closedend 401 and an air pump or compressor 402 connected an open end 407.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The following is a detailed description of certain specific embodimentsof the self-sinking aeration hose disclosed herein.

INTRODUCTION

In one aspect, disclosed herein is an aeration hose capable of diffusingbubbles of air within a body of water, comprising: a) a hose portionderived from a composition, comprising a polyvinyl chloride resin; afirst rubber component; a second rubber component; at least onecopolymer; at least one low temperature plasticizer; at least one fillercomprising copper dioxide; at least one heat stabilizer; at least oneinternal lubricant; at least one antioxidant; and at least onebiofouling agent, wherein the hose portion comprises an outer hoseportion, an inner hose portion and a plurality of hose apertures capableof receiving and diffusing pressurized air, and wherein the hose isflexible and has no memory, wherein the hose apertures are providedtherethrough the inner hose portion and the outer hose portion andproportionally spaced about the outer hose portion along a length of thehose portion; b) a first protective layer portion surrounding an outerdiameter of the hose portion, comprising a plurality of first protectivelayer apertures provided therethrough an inner protective sheathdiameter and an outer protective sheath diameter and spaced along alength of the protective sheath, wherein the first protective layer isflexible and has memory; and c) a second protective layer portionsurrounding an outer diameter of the first protective layer portion,comprising a plurality of second protective layer apertures providedtherethrough an inner second protective layer diameter and an outersecond protective layer diameter and spaced along a length of the secondprotective layer, wherein the second protective layer is flexible andhas memory, wherein the second protective layer apertures are capable ofproviding communication for the air to flow to a body of water from thecorresponding first protective layer apertures, wherein the hoseapertures are capable of providing communication for the air to flowfrom the inner hose portion to a plurality of corresponding firstprotective layer apertures, and wherein the hose apertures are comprisedof between about 20 to 500 apertures per square inch of the hoseportion.

Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an aeration hose 100comprising a hose portion 102 with an inner hose diameter 104, an outerhose diameter 105 and aeration hose length 103. The aeration hose 100comprises a first protective layer portion 101 and a second protectivelayer portion 108 with a first protective layer thickness 106 and asecond protective layer thickness 107, respectively. In someembodiments, the first protective layer is comprised of tear resistpolyurethane with a thickness of between about 0.1 mm to 5 mm. In someembodiments, the second protective layer is comprised of heat resistsilicone rubber with a thickness of between about 0.1 mm to 5 mm. Insome embodiments, the second protective layer is comprised of heatresist silicone rubber with a thickness of between about 0.1 mm to 5 mm.In some embodiments, the heat resist silicone rubber layer can withstandtemperatures ranging from minus 40° C. to 160° C.

In some embodiments, the aeration hose length 103 is between about 1 mand 6000 m. In some embodiments, the hose portion has an inner diameterof between about 0.1 inches and 3 inches and an outer diameter ofbetween about 0.23 inches and 5 inches. In some embodiments, the hoseportion has an inner diameter of about 0.38 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.63inches, 0.75 inches or 1.0 inch. In some embodiments, the hose portionhas an outer diameter of about 0.69 inches, 0.96 inches, 1.065 inches,1.275 inches or 1.69 inches.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a cutaway view of an aeration hose 200comprising an inner hose volume 203, an inner hose surface 202, an outerhose surface 205 The second protective layer 108 comprises a secondprotective layer outer surface 204 and a second protective layer innersurface 207. The first protective layer 101 comprises a first protectivelayer outer surface 201 and a first protective layer inner surface 206.In some embodiments, the first protective layer is comprised ofpolyurethane, silicon, EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer),thermoplastic rubber or natural rubber. In some embodiments, the secondprotective layer is comprised of silicone rubber, silicon, EPDM(ethylene propylene diene monomer), thermoplastic rubber or naturalrubber. In some embodiments, the first protective layer is bonded to theouter surface of the hose portion along length of the hose portion. Insome embodiments, the hose portion, the first protective layer, secondprotective layer are bonded along the length of the aeration hose via aco-extrusion of the composition or component of each.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are illustrations of a cutaway view of an aeration hose300 comprising a hose portion 102 with a plurality of hose apertures301, a first protective layer 101 with a plurality of first protectivelayer apertures 302 and a second protective layer 108 with a pluralityof second protective layer apertures 303. In some embodiments, the firstprotective layer and/or the second protective layer return to theiroriginal shape “memory” and the first protective layer apertures and/orthe second protective layer apertures close when air is not flowing viathe hose apertures. The aeration hose 300 of FIG. 3A depicts the firstprotective layer apertures 302 and the second protective layer apertures303 in a closed position. In contrast, the inner air flow 305 of theaeration hose 300 travels through the hose apertures 301 resulting inthe first protective layer apertures 302 and the second protective layerapertures 303 being in the open position with the exiting air flow 304.In this aspect, the first protective layer and the second protectivelayer have no memory and with the lack of air pressure the firstprotective layer apertures 302 and the second protective layer apertures303 are capable of closing preventing debris from entering the aerationhose disclosed herein. As such, the ability for the the first protectivelayer apertures 302 and the second protective layer apertures 303 toclose when air flow is off results in reduced failure due to debrisentering the aeration hose disclosed herein. In some embodiments, thefirst protective layer apertures are comprised of between about 20 to500 apertures per square inch of the first protective layer. In someembodiments, the second protective layer apertures are comprised ofbetween about 20 to 500 apertures per square inch of the secondprotective layer. In some embodiments, the hose apertures, firstprotective layer apertures and second protective layer apertures eachindependently have an aperture diameter of between about 0.05 mm and 3mm. In some embodiments, the hose apertures, first protective layerapertures and second protective layer apertures each independently havean aperture diameter of between about 0.2 mm and 1.0 mm. In someembodiments, the hose apertures, first protective layer apertures andsecond protective layer apertures are formed via plunging therethroughthe aeration hose with one or more 0.1 mm to 4 mm needles. In someembodiments, the hose apertures, first protective layer apertures andsecond protective layer apertures are formed via plunging therethroughthe aeration hose with one or more 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm needles.

In some embodiments, the aeration hose is comprised of negative buoyancyplastic. In some embodiments, the hose portion is comprised of negativebuoyancy plastic. In some embodiments, the aeration hose is comprised ofnegative buoyancy plastic, and wherein the aeration hose is deployed thebottom of the body of water without weights. In some embodiments, thehose portion is comprised of negative buoyancy plastic, and wherein theaeration hose is deployed the bottom of the body of water withoutweights.

Turning to FIG. 4, the aeration hose 100 comprising a closed end 401 andan air pump or compressor 402 connected an open end 407. In someembodiments, the aeration hose disclosed herein are designed for evendistribution of air bubbles along the length of the aeration hose. Insome embodiments, the aeration hose disclosed herein is capable ofoperating in conjunction with a land installation of an air pump orcompressor 402 with between 25 Watts and 500 Watts. In some embodiments,the aeration hose disclosed herein is capable of operating inconjunction with a land installation of a 75 Watt air pump or compressor402 capable of supplying air pressure to 1000 M of aeration hose. Theair pump or compressor 402 is in electrical communication via one ormore power wires 406 with a power source. In some embodiments, the powersource is selected from the group consisting of a municipal electricalpower grid, one or more generators, street lamp, a battery, and atransformer 403. In some embodiments, the air pump or compressor 402 ofthe aeration hose 100 is powered by electricity provided by one or moresolar panels 405 or one or more wind turbines or windmills 404. In someembodiments, the minimum pressure used with the aeration hose is betweenabout 5 psi and 3 bar. In some embodiments, the maximum pressure usedwith the aeration hose is between about 25 psi and 6 bar. In someembodiments, the airflow with the aeration hose is between about 0.01cfm/ft and 80 lpm/m.

An Example of Aeration Hose Air Pressure Specifications:

-   -   Minimum pressure: 20 psi-1.4 bar.    -   Maximum pressure: ½″ I.D. and ¾″ I.D.: 50 psi-3.4 bar.        -   1″ I.D.: 70 psi-4.8 bar.    -   Suggested airflow: ½″ I.D.: 0.05 cfm/ft-4.62 lpm/m.        -   ¾″ I.D.: 0.065 cfm/ft-6.04 lpm/m.        -   1″ I.D.: 0.1 cfm/ft-9.28 lpm/m.    -   Maximum airflow: ½″ I.D.: 0.1 cfm/ft-9.28 lpm/m.        -   ¾″ I.D.: 0.12 cfm/ft-11.2 lpm/m.        -   1″ I.D.: 0.2 cfm/ft-18.56 lpm/m.

In some embodiments, the hose portion is capable of diffusing bubbles ofair in a body of water that is at a temperature between about −10° C.and 70° C.

In some embodiments, the hose portion is capable of diffusing bubbles ofair in a body of water that is at a temperature between about −4° C. and65° C.

In some embodiments, the second protective layer is comprised of heatresist silicone rubber is capable of diffusing bubbles of air in a bodyof water that is at a temperature between about −40° C. and 160° C.

In some embodiments, the polyvinyl chloride resin comprises a PVC/VA(polyvinyl chloride/polyvinyl acetate copolymer) with an inherentviscosity of between about 0.5 to 0.9 and a K-value of between about 56to 64.

In some embodiments, the first rubber component is present in an amountbetween about 5 to 25 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the second rubber component is present in an amountbetween about 55 to 75 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the copolymer comprises at least one ethylenecopolymer.

In some embodiments, the low temperature plasticizer comprises di-octyladipate, Tris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitate or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the copper dioxide is present in an amount betweenabout 40 to 170 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the polyvinyl chloride resin comprises a PVC/VAwith an inherent viscosity of between about 0.7 to 0.8 and a K-value ofbetween about 59 to 62.

In some embodiments, the first rubber component comprises an amount ofNBR between about 10 to 20 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the second rubber component comprises an amount of15 to 115 mesh crumbed tire between about 55 to 75 parts per hundredparts of resin.

In some embodiments, the copolymer comprises an amount of ethylene-vinylacetate between about 10 to 40 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the low temperature plasticizer comprises an amountof of di-octyl adipate between about 45 to 55 parts per hundred parts ofresin, an amount of Tris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitate between about 45 to55 parts per hundred parts of resin or a combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the copper dioxide is present in an amount betweenabout 60 to 155 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the at least one heat stabilizer comprising anamount of calcium stearate between about 1 to 4 parts per hundred partsof resin, an amount of zinc stearate between about 1 to 4 parts perhundred parts of resin or a combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the at least one internal lubricant is present inan amount between about 0.01 to 0.05 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the at least one antioxidant is present in anamount between about 0.005 to 0.075 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the at least one biofouling agent is selected fromthe group consisting of glycine betaine, sulfobetaine, titanium dioxidenanotubes or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the hose portion as disclosed herein comprises a)the polyvinyl chloride resin comprises a PVC/VA with an inherentviscosity of between about 0.7 to 0.8 and a K-value of between about 59to 62; b) the first rubber component comprises an amount of NBR betweenabout 12 to 18 parts per hundred parts of resin; c) the second rubbercomponent comprises an amount of 20 to 110 mesh crumbed tire betweenabout 60 to 70 parts per hundred parts of resin; d) the copolymercomprises an amount of of ethylene-vinyl acetate between about 15 to 35parts per hundred parts of resin; e) the low temperature plasticizercomprises an amount of of di-octyl adipate between about 45 to 55 partsper hundred parts of resin, an amount of Tris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitatebetween about 45 to 55 parts per hundred parts of resin or a combinationthereof; d) the copper dioxide is present in an amount between about 60to 155 parts per hundred parts of resin; e) the at least one heatstabilizer comprising an amount of calcium stearate between about 1 to 4parts per hundred parts of resin, an amount of zinc stearate betweenabout 1 to 4 parts per hundred parts of resin or a combination thereof;f) the at least one internal lubricant is present in an amount betweenabout 0.01 to 0.05 parts per hundred parts of resin; and g) the at leastone antioxidant is present in an amount between about 0.005 to 0.075parts per hundred parts of resin, wherein the at least one biofoulingagent is selected from an amount of glycine betaine between about 0.02to 0.03 parts per hundred parts of resin, an amount of sulfobetainebetween about 0.02 to 0.03 parts per hundred parts of resin, an amountof titanium dioxide nanotubes between about 0.04 to 0.06 parts perhundred parts of resin or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the hose portion as disclosed herein comprises a)the polyvinyl chloride resin comprises a PVC/VA with an inherentviscosity of between about 0.7 to 0.8 and a K-value of between about 59to 62; b) the first rubber component comprises an amount of NBR betweenabout 12 to 18 parts per hundred parts of resin; c) the second rubbercomponent comprises an amount of 20 to 110 mesh crumbed tire betweenabout 60 to 70 parts per hundred parts of resin; d) the copolymercomprises an amount of ethylene-vinyl acetate between about 15 to 35parts per hundred parts of resin; e) the low temperature plasticizercomprises an amount of di-octyl adipate between about 45 to 55 parts perhundred parts of resin, an amount of Tris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitateparts per hundred parts of resin or a combination thereof; e) the copperdioxide is present in an amount of about 116.16 parts per hundred partsof resin, 83.87 parts per hundred parts of resin, 128 parts per hundredparts of resin, 130.3 parts per hundred parts of resin or 132.44 partsper hundred parts of resin; f) the at least one heat stabilizercomprising an amount of calcium stearate between about 1 to 4 parts perhundred parts of resin, an amount of zinc stearate between about 1 to 4parts per hundred parts of resin or a combination thereof; g) the atleast one internal lubricant is present in an amount between about 0.01to 0.05 parts per hundred parts of resin; and h) the at least oneantioxidant is present in an amount between about 0.005 to 0.075 partsper hundred parts of resin, wherein the at least one biofouling agent isselected from an amount of glycine betaine between about 0.02 to 0.03parts per hundred parts of resin, an amount of sulfobetaine betweenabout 0.02 to 0.03 parts per hundred parts of resin, an amount oftitanium dioxide nanotubes between about 0.04 to 0.06 parts per hundredparts of resin or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the hose portion as disclosed herein comprises a)the polyvinyl chloride resin comprises PVC/VA(polyvinylchloride/polyvinyl acetate copolymer) with an inherentviscosity of about 0.787, and a K-value of about 60.9 the first rubbercomponent comprises an amount of NBR of about 15 parts per hundred partsof resin; b) the second rubber component comprises an amount of 20 to110 mesh crumbed tire of about 65 parts per hundred parts of resin; c)the copolymer comprises an amount of ethylene-vinyl acetate of about 25parts per hundred parts of resin; d) the low temperature plasticizercomprises an amount of di-octyl adipate of about 50 parts per hundredparts of resin and an amount of Tris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitate of about50 parts per hundred parts of resin; e) the copper dioxide is present inan amount of about 116.16 parts per hundred parts of resin, 83.87 partsper hundred parts of resin, 128 parts per hundred parts of resin, 130.3parts per hundred parts of resin or 132.44 parts per hundred parts ofresin; f) the at least one heat stabilizer comprises an amount ofcalcium stearate of about 3 parts per hundred parts of resin and anamount of zinc stearate of about 3 parts per hundred parts of resin; g)the at least one internal lubricant comprises an amount of stearic acidof about 0.03 parts per hundred parts of resin; h) the at least oneantioxidant comprises an amount of ADK STAB AO-50 (Octadecyl3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate) of about 0.025 partsper hundred parts of resin; and wherein the at least one biofoulingagent comprises an amount of glycine betaine of about 0.025 parts perhundred parts of resin, an amount of sulfobetaine of about 0.025 partsper hundred parts of resin and an amount of titanium dioxide nanotubesof about 0.05 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In another aspect, disclosed herein are compositions comprising: apolyvinyl chloride resin; a first rubber component; a second rubbercomponent; at least one copolymer; at least one low temperatureplasticizer; at least one filler comprising copper dioxide; at least oneheat stabilizer; at least one internal lubricant; at least oneantioxidant; and at least one biofouling agent.

In some embodiments, the polyvinyl chloride resin comprises a PVC/VA(polyvinyl chloride/polyvinyl acetate copolymer) with an inherentviscosity of between about 0.5 to 0.9 and a K-value of between about 56to 64.

In some embodiments, the first rubber component is present in an amountbetween about 5 to 25 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the second rubber component is present in an amountbetween about 55 to 75 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the copolymer comprises at least one ethylenecopolymer.

In some embodiments, the low temperature plasticizer comprises di-octyladipate, Tris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitate or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the copper dioxide is present in an amount betweenabout 40 to 170 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the polyvinyl chloride resin comprises a PVC/VAwith an inherent viscosity of between about 0.7 to 0.8 and a K-value ofbetween about 59 to 62.

In some embodiments, the first rubber component comprises an amount ofNBR between about 10 to 20 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the second rubber component comprises an amount of15 to 115 mesh crumbed tire between about 55 to 75 parts per hundredparts of resin.

In some embodiments, the copolymer comprises an amount of ethylene-vinylacetate between about 10 to 40 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the low temperature plasticizer comprises an amountof of di-octyl adipate between about 45 to 55 parts per hundred parts ofresin, an amount of Tris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitate between about 45 to55 parts per hundred parts of resin or a combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the copper dioxide is present in an amount betweenabout 60 to 155 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the at least one heat stabilizer comprising anamount of calcium stearate between about 1 to 4 parts per hundred partsof resin, an amount of zinc stearate between about 1 to 4 parts perhundred parts of resin or a combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the at least one internal lubricant is present inan amount between about 0.01 to 0.05 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the at least one antioxidant is present in anamount between about 0.005 to 0.075 parts per hundred parts of resin.

In some embodiments, the at least one biofouling agent is selected fromthe group consisting of glycine betaine, sulfobetaine, titanium dioxidenanotubes or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises a) the polyvinyl chlorideresin comprises a PVC/VA with an inherent viscosity of between about 0.7to 0.8 and a K-value of between about 59 to 62; b) the first rubbercomponent comprises an amount of NBR between about 12 to 18 parts perhundred parts of resin; c) the second rubber component comprises anamount of 20 to 110 mesh crumbed tire between about 60 to 70 parts perhundred parts of resin; d) the copolymer comprises an amount of ofethylene-vinyl acetate between about 15 to 35 parts per hundred parts ofresin; e) the low temperature plasticizer comprises an amount of ofdi-octyl adipate between about 45 to 55 parts per hundred parts ofresin, an amount of Tris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitate between about 45 to55 parts per hundred parts of resin or a combination thereof; d) thecopper dioxide is present in an amount between about 60 to 155 parts perhundred parts of resin; e) the at least one heat stabilizer comprisingan amount of calcium stearate between about 1 to 4 parts per hundredparts of resin, an amount of zinc stearate between about 1 to 4 partsper hundred parts of resin or a combination thereof; f) the at least oneinternal lubricant is present in an amount between about 0.01 to 0.05parts per hundred parts of resin; and g) the at least one antioxidant ispresent in an amount between about 0.005 to 0.075 parts per hundredparts of resin, wherein the at least one biofouling agent is selectedfrom an amount of glycine betaine between about 0.02 to 0.03 parts perhundred parts of resin, an amount of sulfobetaine between about 0.02 to0.03 parts per hundred parts of resin, an amount of titanium dioxidenanotubes between about 0.04 to 0.06 parts per hundred parts of resin orcombinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises a) the polyvinyl chlorideresin comprises a PVC/VA with an inherent viscosity of between about 0.7to 0.8 and a K-value of between about 59 to 62; b) the first rubbercomponent comprises an amount of NBR between about 12 to 18 parts perhundred parts of resin; c) the second rubber component comprises anamount of 20 to 110 mesh crumbed tire between about 60 to 70 parts perhundred parts of resin; d) the copolymer comprises an amount ofethylene-vinyl acetate between about 15 to 35 parts per hundred parts ofresin; e) the low temperature plasticizer comprises an amount ofdi-octyl adipate between about 45 to 55 parts per hundred parts ofresin, an amount of Tris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitate parts per hundredparts of resin or a combination thereof; e) the copper dioxide ispresent in an amount of about 116.16 parts per hundred parts of resin,83.87 parts per hundred parts of resin, 128 parts per hundred parts ofresin, 130.3 parts per hundred parts of resin or 132.44 parts perhundred parts of resin; f) the at least one heat stabilizer comprisingan amount of calcium stearate between about 1 to 4 parts per hundredparts of resin, an amount of zinc stearate between about 1 to 4 partsper hundred parts of resin or a combination thereof; g) the at least oneinternal lubricant is present in an amount between about 0.01 to 0.05parts per hundred parts of resin; and h) the at least one antioxidant ispresent in an amount between about 0.005 to 0.075 parts per hundredparts of resin, wherein the at least one biofouling agent is selectedfrom an amount of glycine betaine between about 0.02 to 0.03 parts perhundred parts of resin, an amount of sulfobetaine between about 0.02 to0.03 parts per hundred parts of resin, an amount of titanium dioxidenanotubes between about 0.04 to 0.06 parts per hundred parts of resin orcombinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises a) the polyvinyl chlorideresin comprises PVC/VA (polyvinylchloride/polyvinyl acetate copolymer)with an inherent viscosity of about 0.787, and a K-value of about 60.9the first rubber component comprises an amount of NBR of about 15 partsper hundred parts of resin; b) the second rubber component comprises anamount of 20 to 110 mesh crumbed tire of about 65 parts per hundredparts of resin; c) the copolymer comprises an amount of ethylene-vinylacetate of about 25 parts per hundred parts of resin; d) the lowtemperature plasticizer comprises an amount of di-octyl adipate of about50 parts per hundred parts of resin and an amount ofTris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitate of about 50 parts per hundred parts ofresin; e) the copper dioxide is present in an amount of about 116.16parts per hundred parts of resin, 83.87 parts per hundred parts ofresin, 128 parts per hundred parts of resin, 130.3 parts per hundredparts of resin or 132.44 parts per hundred parts of resin; f) the atleast one heat stabilizer comprises an amount of calcium stearate ofabout 3 parts per hundred parts of resin and an amount of zinc stearateof about 3 parts per hundred parts of resin; g) the at least oneinternal lubricant comprises an amount of stearic acid of about 0.03parts per hundred parts of resin; h) the at least one antioxidantcomprises an amount of ADK STAB AO-50 (Octadecyl3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate) of about 0.025 partsper hundred parts of resin; and wherein the at least one biofoulingagent comprises an amount of glycine betaine of about 0.025 parts perhundred parts of resin, an amount of sulfobetaine of about 0.025 partsper hundred parts of resin and an amount of titanium dioxide nanotubesof about 0.05 parts per hundred parts of resin.

Polyvinylchloride

PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) resin has a combination of properties whichmake it particularly suitable for use as a structural material. Inapplications in which impact strength of the structural plastic isimportant, the PVC can be formulated with impact-modifier resins whichimprove the impact strength of the resulting composition. Such highimpact-strength PVC compositions can be readily extruded or otherwiseformed into a variety of articles which have excellent impact strength,toughness and other desired mechanical and chemical properties.

The PVC constituent can comprise a mixture of a homopolymer and one ormore copolymers of vinyl chloride and/or chlorinated PVC or a mixture oftwo or more copolymers of vinyl chloride and/or chlorinated PVC. In thedisclosure herein, the PVC component can be copolymer of vinyl chlorideand one or more other monomers, for example, VA (vinyl acetate) and thelike, vinylidene halides such as vinylidene chloride, alkyl esters ofcarboxylic acids such as acrylic acid, ethyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexylacrylate and the like, unsaturated hydrocarbons such as ethylene,propylene, isobutylene and the like, allyl compounds such as allylacetate and the like. In the use of a copolymer of vinyl chloride, it ispreferred that the vinyl chloride content comprise at least about 80 wt% of the copolymer. In some embodiments, the PVC constituent of thecomposition of the present invention comprises a copolymer of vinylchloride with VA, particularly a copolymer having a K-value of fromabout 56 to 64, most preferably from about 59 to 62.

Stabilizers for PVC

Polymers and copolymers of PVC and vinyl acetate can be sensitive toheat. For this reason, heat stabilizers are usually added to prevent thepolymers from decomposing during normal processing.

The term “stabilizer” as used herein shall mean one or more organic orinorganic compounds useful for protection of PVC against thermal,ultraviolet light, and/or mechanical degradation. The stabilizer mayenhance the effect of the stabilizer system for the PVC and/or act as anantioxidant or stabilizer for the NBR rubber as well. Examples ofconventional stabilizers are disclosed in the Kirk-Othmer Encyclopediaof Chemical Technology, “Heat Stabilizers”, vol 12, pages 1071-91 (JohnWiley, N Y 1994), incorporated herein by reference, and is not intendedto be limiting to the disclosure herein.

Stabilizers may include organotin compounds such as alkyltin,dialkyltin, aryltin, poly(dialkyltin maleate), dialkyltin bis(alkylmaleate), dialkyltin bis(2-alkylthioglycolate), where the alkyl group isC₄-C₈. Some stabilizers contain calcium, zinc, magnesium, lead, bariumand cadmium salts or soaps. In some embodiments, the stabilizer iscomprised of combinations of Ca—Zn, Ba—Ca—Zn and Ba—Zn. Moreover,mixtures of alkaline earth metal salts and polyhydric alcohols.Combinations of aluminum salts and calcium salts may also be used asstabilizer components.

Additional stabilizer components may include epoxy compounds,antioxidants (i.e. phenols or amines), polyols, phosphites, β-diketones,substituted amines and hydrotalcite. NBR rubbers typically utilizestabilizer systems including antioxidants of many classes (phenolic,amines and phosphites). Additional examples include sodium oleate,calcium stearate, zinc stearate, dioctyl phthalate, BHT (butylatedhydroxy toluene), ESO (epoxidized soybean oil), and a variety ofbarium-zinc salt compounds. In some embodiments, each stabilizer may bepresent in levels of about 0.01 to about 15.0, preferably about 0.5 toabout 8.0, more preferably 2.0 to 4.0 parts per hundred parts ofpolyvinyl chloride resin. The levels of usage of the stabilizer vary bythe chemical identity the active ingredient and by the number ofstabilizers present in any stabilizer package.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubbers (NBR)

NBR (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene Rubber) may be classified by theInternational Institute of Synthetic Rubber Producers (IISRP). NBR iscomprised of unsaturated copolymers of 2-propenenitrile and variousbutadiene monomers (1,2-butadiene and 1,3-butadiene). In some instances,these elastomers contain acrylonitrile to butadiene amounts of about 25wt % to 50 wt %, 28 wt % to 39 wt % or 30 wt % to 35 wt % acrylonitrile.The disclosure herein pertains to a nitrile polymer blend comprised ofacrylonitrile-butadiene copolymer blended with a PVC resin.

Crumb Rubber

The term “Crumb rubber” relates to a rubber material derived by reducingscrap tire or other rubber into uniform granules with the inherentlyreinforcing materials, such as steel and fiber removed along with anyother type of inert contaminants such as dust, glass, or rocks. Thecrumb rubber can include particles of reclaimed rubber. Reclaimed rubbercan be recycled rubber, which can be derived from synthetic and/ornatural rubbers or plastics. In embodiments, the crumb rubber can bemade of 100 percent recycled tires. At least a portion of the particlesof reclaimed rubber can be passed through a series of mesh sieves beforethe crumb rubber is incorporated into the rubber composition. Forexample, from 10 percent to 50 percent of the particles of reclaimedrubber can be passed through a 30 to 100 mesh or other mesh sieve.

Biofouling Agents

The main sources of fouling in a given water body can be the result ofsediments (i.e., scale, silt, algae and sludge), corrosion and bacterialactivity. Lack of knowledge of aeration systems and equipment, taxonomyand ecology of tropical fouling organisms is a major stumbling block todevelopment of effective systems for antifouling management.

Chemical fouling inhibitors can reduce fouling in many systems, mainlyby interfering with the crystallization, attachment, or consolidationsteps of the fouling process. Examples for water systems are: chelatingagents, such as EDTA, long-chain aliphatic amines or polyamines, such asoctadecylamine, helamin, and other suitable amines, organic phosphonicacids, such as etidronic acid, or polyelectrolytes, such as polyacrylicacid and polymethacrylic acid.

Non-toxic anti-fouling coatings or embedded components are hydrophiliccoatings. These coatings or embedded components rely on hydrationwhereby the substitution of water for proteins and microorganisms isminimized. Some examples without limiting the disclosure herein arecoatings based on hydrated zwitterions, such as glycine betaine andsulfobetaine. These coatings or embedded components prevent bacteriaattachment and biofilm formation.

The ability of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to undergo surface modificationallows them to form nanocomposites (NCs) with materials such aspolymers, metal nanoparticles, biomolecules and metal oxides. Thebiocidal nature, protein fouling resistance, and fouling releaseproperties of CNT-NCs render them the perfect material for biofoulingprevention.

The disclosure herein employs at least one biofouling agent is selectedfrom the group consisting of glycine betaine, sulfobetaine, titaniumdioxide nanotubes or combinations thereof, wherein the biofouling agentis mixed with the self-sinking PVC tubing compositions described herein.Therefore, the biofouling agent is embedded at the surface of the tubingafter further compounding using melt extrusion whereby the compositionis formed into any desired shape (i.e., tubing).

Furthermore, fouling can be reduced by maintaining a relatively highfluid velocity throughout the aeration tubing.

Compounding

During the compounding process the PVC resin is combined with a othercomponents, including heat stabilizers, lubricants and plasticizers.Additional additives may include fillers, antioxidants, etc. Additivesmay influence or determine mechanical properties, UV light and thermalstability, etc. In the compounding process, the additives are mixed withthe PVC resin. In one embodiment, the compounding method employs ahigh-speed mixer that thoroughly blends all the components. The resultis a semi-dry to dry powder, which may be fed into processing equipment.

The blends obtained from the mixing process can be further compoundedwith a mixer such as a Banbury batch mixer, a Farrel Continuous Mixer ora single or twin screw extruder. In some embodiments, the semi-dry todry blend may be mixed using a Brabender mixer, a Henschel mixer or aribbon blender. In some embodiments, the semi-dry to dry blend may befurther compounded using melt extrusion and formed into any desiredshape (i.e., pellet, tubing, etc.).

Examples 1A-1E (PVC Hose Compositions and Hose Portion Examples)

The powdered PVC/VA (polyvinyl chloride/polyvinyl acetate copolymer,ethyl-vinyl acetate copolymer were placed in a high intensity 500 LHenschel dry powder mixer along with the stabilizers. The PVC/VA andstabilizers calcium stearate and zinc stearate were mixed withsufficient shear to raise the temperature of the coated PVC to at leastabout 80° C.

Then, the TOTM (Tris-2-Ethylhexyl-Trimellitate) and DOA (di-octyladipate) were added to the PVC/VA in the mixer and the temperaturelowers for about 5 minutes from about 80° C. to about 60° C. During thistime the TOTM and DOA are absorbed the mixture forms a dry to wetpowder.

After about 8 to 10 minutes the NBR rubber and meshed tire were blendedwith the PVC/VA as well as the remaining components including thefiller, stearic acid, antioxidant (ADK STAB AO-50) and biofouling agents(glycine betaine, sulfobetaine, titanium dioxide nanotubes). Then, themixture was intimately blended and after about 5 minutes the temperaturelowers to about 40° C. At this time, the mixture was added to a 1000 Lcooler mixer and the mixture was allowed to cool to room temperature.

The mixture was transferred from the cooler mixture and fluxed throughan extruder with a first zone temperature of about 175° C., asecond/third zone temperature of 145° C. and a fourth zone temperatureof 120° C. to yield blends showing good physical properties. Duringextrusion the blend is passed through a die with a blade that cuts thepelletized material to form pellets with a diameter of about 5 mm and alength of about 3 mm. The, a cooling system cools the pellets from about125° C. to room temperature. Table 1 shows the components and relativeparts-per-hundred amounts used to prepare Examples 1A-1E.

TABLE 1 Formulations 1A-1E PHR (Parts-per-Hundred Resin) ComponentsDescription 1A 1B 1C 1D 1E NBR Buna- 15 15 15 15 15N,Perbunan,acrylonitrile butadiene rubber CRUMBED 30-100 Mesh 65 65 6565 65 TIRE PVC/VA PVC/VA Copolymer 100 100 100 100 100 resins, Inherentviscosity = 0.787, K-value = 60.9 EVA742 Ethylene-vinyl acetate 25 25 2525 25 DOA Di-octyl adipate low 35 50 50 50 50 temperature plasticizerTOTM Tris-2-Ethylhexyl- 50 50 50 50 50 Trimellitate Copper Filler 116.1683.87 128 130.3 132.44 Dioxide Calcium Heat stabilizer 3 3 3 3 3stearate Zinc stearate Heat stabilizer 3 3 3 3 3 stearic acid InternalLubricant 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 ADK STAB Antioxidant 0.025 0.0250.025 0.025 0.025 AO-50 Glycine Biofouling agent 0.025 0.025 0.025 0.0250.025 betaine Sulfobetaine Biofouling agent 0.025 0.025 0.025 0.0250.025 TNT Biofouling agent 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 (titanium nanotube)

Hose Portion Examples:

In some embodiments, the hose portions derived from Formulations 1A-1Eof Table 1 are used with a suitable amount of filler to produce the hoseportions with the I.D.'s and O.D.'s reported with Table 2. In someembodiments, the hose portions of Table 2 with the amount and type offiller and the inner diameter and outer diameter of the tube areselected to have a specific gravity suitable for a surface wateraeration of a body of water with a large surface area at a depth ofabout 20 m and a length of about 10 km or less.

TABLE 2 Copper Dioxide (Parts-per-Hundred Formulation Resin) I.D. mmO.D. mm 1A 116.16 10 17.5 1B 83.87 12.7 24.2 1C 128 15.9 27.1 1D 130.319.1 32.4 1E 132.44 25.4 42.9

Properties and Applications

The compositions disclosed herein are useful to produce highlyenvironmentally resistant yet flexible plastic hose portion aerationtubing that is self-sinking, non-kinking and holds no memory whendeployed. The self-sinking property of the tubing is attributed to thecomposition disclosed herein and in particular, the amount and type offiller are predetermined depending on the inner diameter and outerdiameter of the tube, the depth of the body of water and the type ofapplication site (i.e., fish farm, harbor and an environmental treatmentfacility, etc.).

For example, at a fish or shrimp farming application site the depth maybe about 2 m to 3 m to the bottom of the body of water. In someembodiments, the amount and type of filler and the inner diameter andouter diameter of the tube are selected to have a specific gravitysuitable for a surface water and/or environmental treatment at a depthof about 5 m. In some embodiments, the amount and type of filler and theinner diameter and outer diameter of the tube are selected to have aspecific gravity suitable for deicing of a lake or pond at a depth ofabout 15 m. In some embodiments, the amount and type of filler and theinner diameter and outer diameter of the tube are selected to have aspecific gravity suitable for a surface water aeration of a body ofwater with a large surface area at a depth of about 20 m and a length ofabout 10 km or less. In some embodiments, the amount and type of fillerand the inner diameter and outer diameter of the tube are selected tohave a specific gravity suitable for agitation to create a bubblecurtain and/or bubble barrier in a harbor at a depth of about 100 m.Therefore, as the outer diameter increases the volume of the tube andthe wall thickness both increase. As such, the addition of more or lessfiller with the disclosed compositions is needed to produce a tube withthe desired specific gravity, which enables the tube to sink to anappropriate depth at a specific application site.

The aeration system is manufactured to deliver air into a body of watersuch as a pond, lagoon or lake bed from a solar, wind or electricpowered aerator. The rising air bubbles from the aeration systemprovides life-giving oxygen to the water and creates an essentialcirculation pattern. The result is healthier fish, reduced algae growth,fewer dissolved toxic gasses, and less odor and elimination ofstagnation. The aeration hose is constructed of heavy,negative-buoyancy, plastic material, which allows it to descend to thebottom of the pond, lagoon or lake without the use of extra weights. Thenon-clogging performance of the apertures of the first and secondprotective layers provides uniform air pressure distribution inside thehose. Designed for even distribution of air bubbles along the entirehose for any length. In some embodiments, one or more 75 Watt air pumpor compressor can supply 1000 meters of aeration hose disclosed herein.

There is no restriction on the length of the tube, and the tubing can bemanufactured to cover a very large surface area. Compressed air entersthe tubing creating an inner pressure along both sides of the entirelength of tubing and allows the compressed air to release through aporous surface in the tubing, creating efficient micro-bubbles thatprevent clogging and fowling, along the entire length of the tubing. Thereleased air from the porous surface forms a bubble curtain of uniformand evenly dispersed fine bubbles that optimize the oxygen transfer, andlift water which aids in complete circulation throughout the watercolumn surrounding the tube. The size of the bubble matters greatly forthe applications disclosed herein, whereby fine bubbles (micro bubbles)are important for achieving exacting results whether oxygenating awastewater treatment plant, using aeration to biologically remove excessnutrients, using aeration for liquid mixing, deicing and even air bubblecurtain applications.

During operation the compressed air enters the aeration hose creating aninner pressure. Thousands of precision perforations around the entirelength of the hose allow compressed air to release through theperforations at a certain pressure. This creates efficient micro-bubblesthat prevent clogging and fowling (typically found in porous diffusers),along the entire length of the aeration hose. The released air from theholes forms a bubble curtain of uniform and evenly dispersed finebubbles, which optimizes oxygen transfer and lifts water which aids incomplete circulation throughout the water column. The aeration hosedisclosed herein (Smart Aeration Hose®) functions without moving partsor electricity in the water, it increases performance efficiency whilesignificantly reducing electrical and maintenance costs in comparison toother aeration systems. For deicing purposes, the bubbles leaving theSmart Hose® also bring dense, heavier, warmer water from the depths tothe surface, inhibiting ice formation.

Since the tubing operates without moving parts or electrical componentsin the body of water at the application sire, the performance andefficiency is improved and with significantly reduced electrical andmaintenance related costs in comparison to other aeration systems.

For deicing purposes, the air bubbles leaving the tubing also bringdense, heavier, warmer water from the depths of the body of water to thesurface, which results in efficient inhibition of ice formation.

Additional properties derived from tubing manufactured from thedisclosed compositions include but are not limited to strong physicalproperties such as high tensile strength, modulus and elongation; waterproof and/or hydrophobic when the tubing is not in operation; flexibleand is easy to install and is safe for the environment (i.e., does notcontain lead); high oxygen transfer rate; highly resistant plasticmaterial (i.e., chemicals, salinity, temperature).

In some embodiments, the tubing derived from the disclosed compositionshas applications ranging from farm ponds and industrial projects and issuitable for fresh and salt water applications in shallow and deepbodies of water. Other applications include but are limited tocommercial, government and private applications; aeration sewagelagoons; wastewater treatment process plants; leachate ponds; earthenponds, dugouts and lakes, etc.; waterways and channels; storm waterretention ponds; septic systems; aquaculture; deicing docks, power plantwater intake, marina slips, shoreline and/or water retention structures,industrial ship docking, ocean freight & Maritime transport, pumpingoperations and nuclear power generating plants; efficient bottom-to-topwater circulation and mixing for water treatment, deicing, and otherrelated applications; pathogen reduction, whereby the bubbles liftdeeper waters to the surface for UV exposure.

In some embodiments, the tubing derived from the disclosed compositionshas applications ranging from underwater air bubble curtains forprotecting fish and marine mammals from underwater blasting and piledriving noise; protecting marine mammals from offshore oil platforms andwind power farm construction and continuous operation vibrations andnoises (i.e., machinery and engine noise); containing oil spills in abody of water within a selected area; controlling the movement of marinelife, plants and debris. In some aspects, a bubble curtain and/or bubblebarrier can control the movement of marine life and floating debris andcontrol the migration of jellyfish, fish, seagrass, debris, sediments,etc. This may provide an improvement in water quality, including but notlimited to improved water clarity, reduction of algae and reduced H₂Sand odor suppression.

DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of this specification and appended claims, unlessotherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, percentages orproportions, and other numerical values used in the specification andclaims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by theterm “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, thenumerical parameters set forth in the following specification andattached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon thedesired properties sought to be obtained. It is noted that, as used inthis specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the,” include plural references unless expressly andunequivocally limited to one referent. As used herein, the term“include” and its grammatical variants are intended to be non-limiting,such that recitation of items in a list is not to the exclusion of otherlike items that can be substituted or added to the listed items. As usedherein, the term “comprising” means including elements or steps that areidentified following that term, but any such elements or steps are notexhaustive, and an embodiment can include other elements or steps.

While certain embodiments have been illustrated and described, it shouldbe understood that changes and modifications can be made therein inaccordance with ordinary skill in the art without departing from thetechnology in its broader aspects as defined in the following claims.

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particularembodiments described in this application. Many modifications andvariations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, aswill be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalentmethods and compositions within the scope of the disclosure, in additionto those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the artfrom the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations areintended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The presentdisclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims,along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims areentitled. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited toparticular methods, reagents, compounds compositions or biologicalsystems, which can of course vary. It is also to be understood that theterminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are describedin terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize thatthe disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individualmember or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and allpurposes, particularly in terms of providing a written description, allranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subrangesand combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easilyrecognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range beingbroken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths,tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein canbe readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third,etc. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all languagesuch as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” and the like,include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequentlybroken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will beunderstood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individualmember.

All publications, patent applications, issued patents, and otherdocuments referred to in this specification are herein incorporated byreference as if each individual publication, patent application, issuedpatent, or other document was specifically and individually indicated tobe incorporated by reference in its entirety. Definitions that arecontained in text incorporated by reference are excluded to the extentthat they contradict definitions in this disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. An aeration hose capable of diffusing bubbles ofair within a body of water, comprising: a) a hose portion derived from acomposition, comprising a polyvinyl chloride resin; a first rubbercomponent; a second rubber component; at least one copolymer; at leastone low temperature plasticizer; at least one filler comprising copperdioxide; at least one heat stabilizer; at least one internal lubricant;at least one antioxidant; and at least one biofouling agent, wherein thehose portion comprises an outer hose portion, an inner hose portion anda plurality of hose apertures capable of receiving and diffusingpressurized air, wherein the hose is flexible and has no memory, andwherein the hose apertures are provided therethrough the inner hoseportion and the outer hose portion and proportionally spaced about theouter hose portion along a length of the hose portion; b) a firstprotective layer portion surrounding an outer diameter of the hoseportion, comprising a plurality of first protective layer aperturesprovided therethrough an inner protective sheath diameter and an outerprotective sheath diameter and spaced along a length of the protectivesheath, wherein the first protective layer is flexible and has memory;and c) a second protective layer portion surrounding an outer diameterof the first protective layer portion, comprising a plurality of secondprotective layer apertures provided therethrough an inner secondprotective layer diameter and an outer second protective layer diameterand spaced along a length of the second protective layer, wherein thesecond protective layer is flexible and has memory, wherein the secondprotective layer apertures are capable of providing communication forthe air to flow to a body of water from the corresponding firstprotective layer apertures, and wherein the hose apertures are capableof providing communication for the air to flow from the inner hoseportion to a plurality of corresponding first protective layerapertures.
 2. The aeration hose of claim 1, wherein the hose aperturesare comprised of between about 20 to 500 apertures per square inch ofthe hose portion.
 3. The aeration hose of claim 1, wherein the firstprotective layer apertures are comprised of between about 20 to 500apertures per square inch of the first protective layer.
 4. The aerationhose of claim 1, wherein the second protective layer apertures arecomprised of between about 20 to 500 apertures per square inch of thesecond protective layer.
 5. The aeration hose of claim 1, wherein thehose apertures, first protective layer apertures and second protectivelayer apertures each independently have an aperture diameter of betweenabout 0.05 mm and 3 mm.
 6. The aeration hose of claim 1, wherein thefirst protective layer is comprised of polyurethane, silicon, EPDM(ethylene propylene diene monomer), thermoplastic rubber or naturalrubber.
 7. The aeration hose of claim 1, wherein the second protectivelayer is comprised of silicone rubber, silicon, EPDM (ethylene propylenediene monomer), thermoplastic rubber or natural rubber.
 8. The aerationhose of claim 1, wherein the first protective layer is bonded to theouter surface of the hose portion along length of the hose portion. 9.The aeration hose of claim 1, wherein the second protective layer isbonded to the outer surface of the first protective layer along lengthof the first protective layer.
 10. The aeration hose of claim 1, whereinthe aeration hose is comprised of negative buoyancy plastic.
 11. Theaeration hose of claim 1, wherein the hose portion is comprised ofnegative buoyancy plastic.
 12. The aeration hose of claim 1, wherein theaeration hose is comprised of negative buoyancy plastic, and wherein theaeration hose is deployed the bottom of the body of water withoutweights.
 13. The aeration hose of claim 1, wherein the hose portion iscomprised of negative buoyancy plastic, and wherein the aeration hose isdeployed the bottom of the body of water without weights.
 14. Theaeration hose of claim 1, wherein the hose portion has an inner diameterof between about 0.1 inches and 3 inches and an outer diameter ofbetween about 0.23 inches and 5 inches.
 15. The aeration hose of claim1, wherein the hose portion has an inner diameter of about 0.38 inches,0.5 inches, 0.63 inches, 0.75 inches or 1.0 inch.
 16. The aeration hoseof claim 1, wherein the hose portion has an outer diameter of about 0.69inches, 0.96 inches, 1.065 inches, 1.275 inches or 1.69 inches.
 17. Theaeration hose of claim 1, wherein the hose portion is capable ofdiffusing bubbles of air in a body of water that is at a temperaturebetween about −10° C. and 70° C.
 18. The aeration hose of claim 1,wherein the first protective layer is comprised of tear resistpolyurethane with a thickness of between about 0.1 mm to 5 mm.
 19. Theaeration hose of claim 1, wherein the second protective layer iscomprised of heat resist silicone rubber with a thickness of betweenabout 0.1 mm to 5 mm.
 20. A method of aerating and/or deicing a body ofwater with an aeration hose capable of diffusing bubbles of air within abody of water, comprising: a) a hose portion derived from a composition,comprising a polyvinyl chloride resin; a first rubber component; asecond rubber component; at least one copolymer; at least one lowtemperature plasticizer; at least one filler comprising calciumcarbonate; at least one heat stabilizer; at least one internallubricant; at least one antioxidant; and at least one biofouling agent,wherein the hose portion comprises an outer hose portion, an inner hoseportion and a plurality of hose apertures capable of receiving anddiffusing pressurized air, wherein the hose is flexible and has nomemory, and wherein the hose apertures are provided therethrough theinner hose portion and the outer hose portion and proportionally spacedabout the outer hose portion along a length of the hose portion; b) afirst protective layer portion surrounding an outer diameter of the hoseportion, comprising a plurality of first protective layer aperturesprovided therethrough an inner protective sheath diameter and an outerprotective sheath diameter and spaced along a length of the protectivesheath, wherein the first protective layer is flexible and has memory;and c) a second protective layer portion surrounding an outer diameterof the first protective layer portion, comprising a plurality of secondprotective layer apertures provided therethrough an inner secondprotective layer diameter and an outer second protective layer diameterand spaced along a length of the second protective layer, wherein thesecond protective layer is flexible and has memory, wherein the secondprotective layer apertures are capable of providing communication forthe air to flow to a body of water from the corresponding firstprotective layer apertures, and wherein the hose apertures are capableof providing communication for the air to flow from the inner hoseportion to a plurality of corresponding first protective layerapertures.